Manchester United bans tablets and laptops at stadium

Manchester United has banned football fans from bringing tablets and laptops into its Old Trafford stadium on matchdays.

The football club said that it was reacting to security intelligence warnings, adding that the changes are in line with checks on electronic devices at airports in the UK and US. However, unlike the new flight rules, fans will not be able to demonstrate that devices are genuine by powering them up on request.

"We apologise for any inconvenience that this might cause but we are committed to putting the safety and security of all supporters as our number one priority," a statement from Manchester United read.

Electronic items larger than 15cm by 10cm, including laptops, iPads and iPad minis have been put on a list of prohibited items at the stadium ahead of the next football season. Smartphones and small lens cameras will still be permitted.

Other Premier League clubs do not currently have such bans in place, with Manchester United claiming the added security measures were required due to the "scale of Old Trafford and profile of Manchester United" presenting a "unique" risk.

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